Former Liverpool FC owner David Moores is in hospital following a violent burglary.
Two men forced their way into his home in Halsall, near Southport, on Wednesday night and demanded cash and jewellery.
Mr Moores, 69, was assaulted during the raid and later taken to Aintree Hospital with leg and head injuries. He is said to be in a stable condition.
The offenders made off with jewellery and watches.
Lancashire Police are appealing for information about the burglary which took place at about 8.45pm.
Detective Inspector Marc Nasser said: "We believe this was an isolated, targeted attack and I would like to reassure local residents that we have stepped up patrols in the area.
"The investigation remains in its early stages but if you have any information that could assist us, please do get in touch."
Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting log reference 1506 of Wednesday March 2 2016.
Alternatively Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at Crimestoppers-uk.org.
Mr Moores, who was chairman from 1991, sold his stake in the club to American investors Tom Hicks and George Gillett in 2007, a decision he said he later regretted. He is the honorary life president of Liverpool FC.